Water Supply Network Control via Linear Programming Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing water supply network control systems rely on simplified models that do not account for integer states or decision variables, leading to inefficient energy consumption and increased switching costs due to frequent activation and deactivation of components like pumps, which reduces their lifespan.

Innovation Solution

A method for controlling the water supply network that determines a planning horizon, sets water flow limits, and creates a control plan to minimize energy consumption and switching processes by optimizing the operating configurations of edge components, such as pumps, to maintain a predetermined water balance while extending their lifespan.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If simplified models are used for control planning, then calculation complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates because integer states and decision variables are not accounted for

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalculation complexityVSAvoidcontrol precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the control problem by changing the parameter representation - using continuous relaxation of binary variables and applying duality theory to convert the discrete optimization problem into a continuous linear programming problem that can be solved efficiently while maintaining solution accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional heuristic mechanical adjustment approach with a mathematical optimization system using linear programming and duality theory, substituting iterative trial-and-error methods with a rigorous mathematical framework that guarantees optimal solutions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Use of energy by moving object

If components are operated periodically at high speed and switched off, then energy costs increase, but productivity is maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy costVSAvoidwater supply efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous operation of pumps at optimized speeds rather than periodic on/off cycling, maintaining continuous water supply while reducing energy consumption through optimal speed selection based on actual demand patterns and system state

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically adjusts pump speeds based on real-time system conditions including water levels, demand patterns, and energy prices, allowing the system to adapt operating parameters continuously rather than using fixed on/off schedules

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If frequent switching of edge components occurs, then switching costs increase, but adaptability to varying demand is improved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedemand response capabilityVSAvoidcomponent lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary optimization calculations considering the entire planning horizon, anticipating future demand patterns and system states, thereby determining optimal switching schedules in advance that minimize both switching frequency and energy consumption while meeting all future demands

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic re-optimization at planning horizons while maintaining continuous operation between optimizations, using the calculated optimal schedules to guide component operation and reduce frequent switching while still adapting to changing conditions at each optimization cycle

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS10782663B2Control of a water supply network

Publication Date: 2020.09.22 SIEMENS AG

AI summary

A water supply network includes node components and edge components, wherein the edge components transport water between the node components. The edge components is controllable in relation to its flow behavior for water. A method for controlling the water supply network includes the steps of determining a planning horizon, which includes a number of time slices; determining upper and lower limits for feeds and prospective withdrawals of water in the time slices; determining possible operating configurations of the at least one edge component; determining energy costs for an activation of the edge component in the time slices; determining permissible states of node components; determining current states (initial states) of edge or node components; and determining a control plan for the at least one edge component on the basis of the determined information in such a manner that a predetermined water balance is maintained in each time slice averaged over time.